Spacious hunting lodge hideaway with stunning views and Private River Access
Murphy’s Retreat is a spacious hunting lodge hideaway that holds a special place in our hearts— since it’s the spot where our family’s Meramec River adventure began. Boasting a wide-open floor plan and a deck with breathtaking views overlooking the winding river bed below, Murphy’s Retreat has space for 12 people to gather together in the gorgeous Missouri Ozarks, yet there’s still plenty of room for everyone to spread out and find a little private time and peace.
A Grand Great Room Open the glass-paned front door and step inside the sprawling great room. Shiny wood floors, soaring vaulted ceilings, and two walls of large windows create a spacious room that’s filled with natural sunlight. Two buttery soft leather sofas and two plush armchairs provide plenty of comfy seating space, and the wood-burning fireplace is ideal for those chilly Missouri evenings. Over the fireplace is a large HDTV for catching the game or hosting a family movie night.
A Spacious, Open Kitchen A super-convenient bar separates the kitchen from the living space, yet keeps everyone close together too. The kitchen is arranged in an efficient u-shape and is outfitted with lots of wood cabinets and butcher block countertops. Premier appliances include an electric range, microwave oven, dishwasher, and refrigerator. Next to the kitchen is a formal dining space illuminated by an antler chandelier and bookshelves with an impressive array of board games for the occasional rainy day.
Three Serene Sleeping Spaces The three bedrooms at Murphy’s Retreat are spread out to allow for plenty of privacy even with larger groups. On the main level, there are three bedrooms— one with a queen-size, log-framed bed and a twin-size day bed with a twin-size trundle, and two additional bedrooms with two full-size beds. The full bathroom features a tiled walk-in shower with double bowl vanity. Then on the lower level, there is a large, flexible space with a queen-size bed, a queen-size sleeper sofa, and a small sitting area.
A Dreamy Deck With Magnificent Views Chances are, you’ll find yourself drawn outside again and again to the fantastic covered porch and newly installed firepit area overlooking the winding river below— it’s everyone’s favorite spot. In the mornings, this is the perfect place to bring your steaming mug of morning coffee as you watch the forest wake up around you. At sunset, pour a glass of wine and break out the binoculars to search the sky for the majestic eagles soaring overhead and nesting in the treetops. During the day, you’ll want to lace up your hiking shoes and explore the surrounding trails, or grab your rod and reel and catch that evening’s dinner in the river. Guests of Murphy’s Retreat also have access to a riverside pavilion that houses a smoker, bbq grills, bar, hanging firepit, and a large deck. This is riverside ozark mountain bliss at its very best.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.
About the area
Steelville
Located in Steelville, this holiday home is in a rural area. Peaceful Bend Vineyard and Maramec Spring Park are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Woodson K. Woods Memorial Conservation Area and Dry Fork Conservation Area. Kayaking and water tubing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and mountain biking nearby.
Missouri University of Science and Technology - 39 min drive - 53.1 km
Meramec Caverns - 47 min drive - 71.6 km
The Fugitive Beach - 51 min drive - 68.4 km
Restaurants
MidWest Travel Plaza - 22 min drive
McDonald's - 22 min drive
Casey's General Store - 10 min drive
Casey's General Store - 22 min drive
Huddle House - 23 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Spacious hunting lodge hideaway with stunning views and Private River Access pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much does it cost to stay at Spacious hunting lodge hideaway with stunning views and Private River Access?
As of 12 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Spacious hunting lodge hideaway with stunning views and Private River Access on 13 Apr 2026 start from £325, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Spacious hunting lodge hideaway with stunning views and Private River Access?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Spacious hunting lodge hideaway with stunning views and Private River Access?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Spacious hunting lodge hideaway with stunning views and Private River Access?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Spacious hunting lodge hideaway with stunning views and Private River Access located?
Situated in a rural location, this holiday home is steps from Meramec River and 1.4 mi (2.2 km) from Peaceful Bend Vineyard. Riverview Roadside Park and Birds Nest Beach Park are also within 9 miles (15 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We loved the spaces for gathering our group together like the porch, the campfire area, the living room and dining areas. The view was fabulous too. We loved the pavilion down by the river and had no trouble getting there either walking or using a front wheel drive car. We loved the whole property and definitely would stay at Murphy’s place again. The other cabins look nice too from the outside.
This place has a great view and is right on the Meramec River, we went to several vineyard and Missouri Springs. A good place to get away and see the natural beauty of Missouri.
Douglas J.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 18 May 2022
Thank you Douglas! We are happy you enjoyed staying with us!
There was a ton of room for guests to sleep (there were 12 of us). The kitchen was spacious and had everything we needed and the river was short walk down the trail.
Austin M.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Aug 2022
Thank you Austin! We are happy you enjoyed staying with us!
We had a wonderful time gathering with our far flung children for the holiday in this remote spot. The kitchen had everything we needed for a traditional feast. The views are spectacular!
Elizabeth C.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Dec 2022
Thank you Elizabeth! We are happy you enjoyed your stay with us!
We couldn't have had a better time! Half of us live in MO and the other half in IL, so this was the perfect place to come together for some summer fun! The house was great and had everything we needed...including a beautiful view!Honestly, we were outside on the porch, around the fire pit or at the river the majority of our stay. However, we cooked a big dinner every night and enjoyed landing in comfy beds after long, hot days in the river. We would definitely stay here again! Also, it was so convenient having Kick'n K Canoe rentals on the premises.
We couldn't be happier with everything you provided! And the fan was perfect on the deck - thank you! And the recommendation for your mom's rafting company worked out perfect! I highly recommend your property!
Vicki M.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified
10/10 Excellent
cynthia h.
4 May 2018
Wonderful time
It was a great property. Even though the weather was cold the wood burning fireplace made for great comfort. Very clean and had everything we needed for family fun. Thanks for everything.
cynthia h.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Mar 2020
We are so happy you enjoyed our property! Thank you for the review.
So easy to settle in and begin enjoying the surroundings. Outside fire pit every night. Good fishing in the beautiful river. The house had everything we needed. Used a bird identifying app and noted 24 birds one morning over coffee. Hope to visit again.
Greg W.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Aug 2024
Thank you for your review Greg! How neat that you were able to see that many different birds!! We’re so happy you enjoyed your stay and we’d love to have you back!
House was amazing! Beautiful views!! Jessica was very nice and responding to any communication quickly. We got to meet her and her husband and they were both friendly and awesome! Definitely recommend and will hopefully be back soon!
Tarah S.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Sept 2022
Hi Tarah! Thank you so much. It was nice meeting you all too and we hope to have you back soon!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
13 Jul 2012
Fantastic!
It is a beautiful, comfortable, clean house with lots of room. The deck has a fantastic view and there is a great picnic table next to the deck. We had a wonderful stay and enjoyed the river. The pavilion next to the river is also very nice. Overall, everything was better than we expected. Perfect for larger groups and all of us noncampers!
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Mar 2020
Thank you, Jane! It was great meeting you all and we hope to see you again!
It was a lovely spot. Nice and clean. 2 guests stung by wasps and 1 spider bite but we were in the woods.
Nijole G.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Jul 2023
Hi Nijole, thank you for your review. It’s unfortunate that it wasn’t a 5 star. I do apologize about the wasps. We have wasp spray we leave at each cabin to help guests out if the wasp are out.
Great experience! Enjoyed the house, making fires, drinking coffee & soaking up the view, hanging out at the pavilion, hiking, playing corn hole and cards, and baking pizzas in the pizza oven. We also enjoyed a trip into Steelville. Walked around visiting the stores. Enjoyed a burger and ice cream at the Dairy Isle.
Kristen B.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 30 May 2022
Kristen we are glad that you had such a great time. We hope that you come back and stay with us again!!!!
Beautiful place! We loved the access to the river and the peaceful views. Only negative is there is a hornets nest in the upper soffit of the house to the right of the deck. We sprayed them a bunch of times and they kept coming. Might want to get an exterminator out there. It happens and we understand, just wanted you to know about it.
Blake F.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Jul 2024
Thanks for your review Blake! We took care of the nest. We’re happy you enjoyed your stay!
Such a great space to be with friends and perfect location
Host was available when needed for questions. House was perfect for our group. We loved the Pavillion and out door back porch. Plenty of space very clean and beautiful scenery! Close to the river for floating and play time. I called to organize float and everything was ready to go when we arrived. Great directions to our location and float pick up drop off with no problems. Cant wait to go back! PERFECT 5TH YEAR GIRLS annual float trip!
Stacy T.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Sept 2023
Thank you so much for your review Stacy! We are happy you enjoyed staying with us and can’t wait to have you back!
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Caitlin P.
11 Jul 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location
Cozy cabin with tons of space
We really enjoyed our stay and it worked out really well with our two toddlers. The kitchen was really well equipped and everything seemed really clean. We only slept in the master bedroom and the basement bed but both were really comfortable. The bathtub was so fun for our toddlers to bathe in and we used it everyday.
The only issue we had was that the listing makes it sound like the pavilion is was for our private use, when in fact there are a handful of other cabins nearby that also have access to the pavilion. That being said the pavilion was awesome! It had a refrigerator multiple grills, a Johnny on the spot (that wasn’t awful) and plenty of seating. The gravel road to get down to the pavilion was pretty steep and hard to get up in a minivan but we made it just fine once we got the hang of it. If you have four wheel drive it would be no problem.
The spring that is just down the river a bit is so beautiful and was so fun to explore!
We did have a few questions for the owner who was super helpful and very polite. We look forward to staying at this cabin again and possibly trying out some other cabins at Murphy’s place.
Caitlin P.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Jul 2022
Thanks for the review Caitlin. We are happy you enjoyed staying with us and look forward to having you back.
We absolutely loved our stay at Murphy's Retreat! It was so cozy and spacious all at once! We really enjoyed the screened in porch and how close the river was! We will definitely be back soon!!
Upon entering, the air smelled nice and clean. However, there were a few problems with cleanliness. The floors were quite dirty, the fireplace doors black, there was a spoon in the disposal and it smelled bad, and some of the kitchen items were greasy or soiled. Screens on porch have several holes allowing unwanted animals to enter. On the plus side, bedding was clean and there were plenty of clean towels. The furniture is well worn but comfortable. I've rented many apartments, condos and houses in this country as well as in Europe. In my opinion, this house, though very remote with a great view, is not a good value for the money.
Very clean, beautiful view of the river, large screened in porch. We were a group of women that met at Peaceful Bend Winery (right across the street from the property) for a nice lunch and wine prior to check in at our cabin. The cabin had plenty of sleeping space and everything we needed. We spent most of our time on the screened in porch looking at the river below. It is a little hike to get down to the river if you don't have a 4 wheel drive vehicle. Or you can drive a couple of miles to Bird's Nest Landing for river access. We had a great weekend.
Dani O.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Feb 2022
Thank you Dani, we are happy you all enjoyed staying with us!
Everything was as advertised and the screened-in porch overlooking the river and woods was definitely the highlight of the trip! So relaxing for us, and the perfect place for the dogs to hang out too. Had a couple of issues but Crystal addressed them to our satisfaction. Would definitely return and have already recommended it to others.
Greg-Susan F.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2020
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Debbie D.
6 Dec 2017
Perfect Family Retreat
Your property far exceeded our expectations. We hiked, ate good meals, talked and laughed and gave thanks for the opportunity to spend time together in a wonderful atmosphere.
Thanks,
The Darrow Family
Debbie D.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2017
About the host
Hosted by Jessica
This idyllic location has been in my family for five generations. Originally purchased by my great-great-grandfather, my great-grandfather was born in the original farmhouse. Then my grandmother, her twin sister, my own mother, and I were all lucky enough and blessed to have grown up cradled within this picturesque and peaceful piece of land. Excited and inspired to share our love of this land with others, my husband Justin and I started 4J Vacation Rentals in 2020 with two homes— Country Cabin & Hillside— that were each built and lived in by my grandparents and my great-grandmother. In 2021, we purchased the neighboring 16 acres and 4 cabins— Dogwood, Sassafras, Copperstone, and Murphy’s Retreat— that overlook the Meramec River, and our vision of sharing this land was magnified and expanded beyond our wildest dreams. Additionally, Justin and I also run a nearby cattle farm, and my mom and I have started a non-profit equine therapy practice for those with special needs. Justin and I have two kids who love to run around and explore the surrounding rolling hills and sparkling riverbed, just like I did when I was a kid, and my mom did before me. This land is a magical place we so enjoy sharing— and seeing guests like you fall in love with it is such a rewarding feeling. Waking up to see the morning sunrise through the mist as it rises off the Meramec River Valley is a truly spiritual experience— one that will effortlessly bring you the serenity and tranquility you crave, and that are so lacking in the world today. But don’t take my word for it. Book your next escape and come see us soon.
Why they chose this property
This house is a great escape for 8 to 12 people. It has everything you need to enjoy a fantastic weekend with close friends. The view from the back deck overlooking the River below is hard to put into pictures or words but if I had to choose one it would be breathtaking!!!!
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests